Segunda side UCAM Murcia have appointed former Almeria boss Francisco as their new manager as they aim to avoid relegation back to the third tier.

Founded in 1999, Los Universitarios were promoted to the Segunda division for the first time this summer after defeating Real Madrid Castilla in a promotion playoff, but a slow start to the season see's them with only four wins from their opening 18 matches and sitting second-from-bottom in the standings, leading to the departure of Jose Maria Salmeron.

Francisco has been without a club for over two years after being dismissed by Almeria in December 2014 - his debut season at the Andalucians had seen a final day survival but without a win in eight the following season, he was sacked.

He began his managerial career with Los Rojiblancos youth sector before making the step-up to the club's reserve team in 2011 and after impressive results, was appointed first team coach in 2013.

His playing career as a striker included stints with Almeria, Albacete and Granada.

Despite their lowly position in the table, UCAM are only two points away from safety and nine points off the promotion playoff places, such is the competitive nature of the division.

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